Can Belly Fat Return After A Tummy Tuck?

If you have developed stubborn fat, sagging skin, and other frustrating changes associated with pregnancy, weight loss, or simply the aging process, you are not alone. Millions of men and women turn to cosmetic surgery each year to reverse or correct the signs and symptoms of aging or other life events. One of the most widely performed and dramatically transformative cosmetic procedures available today is, undoubtedly, the tummy tuck. Miami, FL board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso is highly experienced in the complexities of tummy tuck surgery and offers a multitude of abdominoplasty techniques to ensure each patient’s individual needs are met. If you are ready to rid yourself of loose, excess skin and restore a smoother, more youthful physique, learn more about tummy tuck here.

What is a tummy tuck?

Formally known as abdominoplasty, the tummy tuck is an extensive surgical procedure designed to sculpt a smoother, tighter, more appealing midsection, primarily through excess skin removal. In some cases, a tummy tuck can be used to improve or correct other conditions as well, including:

  • Excess abdominal skin
  • Hernia
  • Diastasis recti
  • Abdominal pooch or pouch
  • Stretch marks
  • Poor posture
  • Skin rash/irritation
  • Stress urinary incontinence

One of the most common reasons that patients pursue tummy tuck surgery in Miami, FL is to reverse the unwanted effects of pregnancy and/or weight loss. When the skin is stretched out for a prolonged period of time, such as when a woman is carrying a child or a patient is overweight – it may not be able to “snap back” to its original shape. Even after the weight is lost, these men and women are often left with loose, hanging, excess skin that makes it difficult to enjoy the results of all of their hard work. In this situation, a tummy tuck can be a fantastic solution.

Can a tummy tuck be used for stomach fat removal?

It is imperative that patients considering a tummy tuck understand that the procedure is not designed to be an abdominal fat removal surgery. Instead, the primary purpose of a tummy tuck is to remove excess skin. That said, liposuction is often combined with a tummy tuck to remove stubborn pockets of fat from the abdomen and further enhance a patient’s overall results. However, tummy tuck patients should already be at an ideal weight before undergoing surgery. For men and women whose main goal is fat removal, Dr. LaGrasso may provide other surgical alternatives.

Can you gain belly fat after a tummy tuck?

One of the most essential things that patients can do to maintain their tummy tuck results is to avoid future weight fluctuations. While the outcome of a tummy tuck can last indefinitely, gaining weight after surgery can certainly compromise your results and lead to the need for a second or subsequent procedure. Even when liposuction is paired with a tummy tuck to remove fat cells from the abdominal area, future weight gain can cause the neighboring fat cells to grow and even generate new fat cells. For this reason, women considering a tummy tuck are highly encouraged to defer surgery until they are done having children, as the weight gain associated with pregnancy can also negatively impact their results.

Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?

Absolutely. In fact, most patients choose to pair their tummy tuck with one or more complementary procedures to achieve a more dramatic transformation and address multiple areas of concern in a single surgical setting. Mommy makeover surgery, which typically includes a tummy tuck and breast augmentation, is a perfect example of this. Some of the cosmetic procedures that are most commonly performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck include:

During your initial consultation, Dr. LaGrasso will take ample time to thoroughly discuss and evaluate your concerns and recommend a custom-tailored surgical plan that can help you achieve your ultimate cosmetic goals.

How do I find the best tummy tuck surgeon in Miami, FL?

Choosing a highly qualified, board-certified, and experienced plastic surgeon to perform your Miami, FL tummy tuck is critical for ensuring a successful surgery and stunning results. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your consultation about the surgeon’s experience and training, and be sure to read previous patient testimonials and browse before-and-after galleries to get an idea of the surgeon’s past work and what results may be possible for you.

If you are ready to finally take your look to the next level and get the gorgeous, sexy figure you’ve always dreamed of, call our friendly team in Miami, FL to schedule your tummy tuck consultation with exceptional board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso today.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.